In a concerning series of events, authorities are actively searching for the suspect, described as a heavy-set Hispanic man with a dark complexion and buzz-cut hair, standing between 5 feet, 10 inches to 6 feet tall.
Three female University of Arizona students have fallen victim to harassment and attempted abduction within a mile of each other over the past week, according to Tucson police reports
The suspect, last seen wearing an orange shirt and jeans, is wanted in connection with these disturbing incidents. The most recent incident occurred late Monday night when a male assailant grabbed a woman around her waist and subjected her to unwanted advances over her clothes, as revealed by Tuscon Assistant Police Chief Christopher Dennison during a Wednesday press conference. In this particular case, the victim bravely resisted, screaming for help, causing the assailant to release her and flee to his vehicle before driving away. This alarming encounter follows two similar incidents where female students reported being followed by a man driving a purple or dark blue car, possibly an early 2000s Toyota Camry or Corolla, with distinct features including a dented front bumper, tinted windows, and a worn Arizona license plate.
Both previous incidents, reported on December 6 and 7, involved a man exiting his vehicle to grab the victims from behind, only to retreat when met with screams
All University of Arizona students distressing incidents unfolded within a one-mile radius of the University of Arizona campus. Fortunately, none of the victims suffered physical harm, but the similarities in the suspect’s description and the circumstances of the December 11 attempted abduction have prompted heightened security measures around the university.
University of Arizona Police Department Police Chief Chris Olson assured the public that they are enhancing patrol capabilities to increase visibility and engagement. Safety measures include deploying police officers, safety aides, and student community service officers for added security. Authorities, including the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, University of Arizona Police Department, and Oro Valley Police Department, are actively collaborating to investigate and apprehend the suspect. As the investigation unfolds, Dennison urges the public to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity to the police, or call 911 promptly.